Purpose: The purpose of this study was to review behavior change theories in terms of important variables, concept definitions, and applicability to diabetes self-management behavior. Methods: Six behavior change theories (the Transtheoretical Model, the Health Belief Model, the Theory of Reasoned Action, the Theory of Planned Behavior, Social cognitive theory, and Information-Motivation-Behavioral skills Model) were reviewed which were applied in diabetes self-management interventions. Results: The five key concepts from the five non-stage behavior change theories were delineated. Based on the key concepts, a theoretical framework was formulated as the explanatory model of diabetes self-management behaviors. The four major concepts in Information-Motivation- Behavioral skills Model were included. The cognitive arm of the proposed theoretical framework included constructs related to diabetes knowledge, motivation (beliefs, attitude, social norm), self-efficacy, and intention. Conclusion: The theoretical framework described here includes the key factors of successful diabetes self- management intervention. However, the concept of motivation needs further exploration and clarification for operationalization.